Veteran Grown

Historically, a large percentage of veterans have lived and worked on farms, but a recent census shows the veteran-farmer population has dropped 18% in just five years. Three farmer-veterans join Stacy Pearsall to discuss their work in agriculture, the importance of farming, and how farming can reduce stress, improve health and provide a sense of purpose. After being wounded by an IED in Afghanistan, Army Reservist Davon Goodwin persevered, earning a degree in biology. He now farms sustainably alongside his family on 42 acres in North Carolina. Marine Corps veteran Steve Jimenez was introduced to beekeeping and eventually founded Hives for Heroes, a nonprofit that helps veterans discover the therapeutic benefits of beekeeping. After retiring from the Army, Kara Rutter founded Project Victory Gardens, an agritherapy and education program for veterans.